If you love bold, rich coffee with a strong espresso kick, then Café Bustelo is probably already on your radar. This iconic Cuban-style coffee has a devoted fan base thanks to its robust flavor and versatility. But how do you make Café Bustelo so it tastes just right—whether you’re using a drip coffee maker, a stovetop espresso pot, or another method? Let’s dive into everything you need to know to brew the perfect cup of Café Bustelo at home.
What Is Café Bustelo?
Café Bustelo is a finely ground coffee known for its bold, full-bodied flavor. It’s a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans, roasted to deliver a chocolatey, rich espresso-style coffee that’s especially popular in Latin American communities. It’s pre-ground and ready to use, making it convenient for various brewing methods.
Brewing Café Bustelo: Methods and Tips
You don’t need an espresso machine to enjoy Café Bustelo. This coffee is versatile and can be brewed using multiple methods. Here are the most popular ways to make it:
1. Drip Coffee Maker (Most Popular in the U.S.)
This method is straightforward and yields a strong, espresso-like coffee.
What You Need:
– Café Bustelo ground coffee
– Cold, filtered water
– #4 basket-shaped coffee filter
– Drip coffee maker
Steps:
- Add 6 ounces of cold water for every tablespoon of coffee to your coffee maker’s reservoir.
- Place a #4 basket coffee filter in the filter basket.
- Add 1 tablespoon of Café Bustelo coffee grounds per 6 ounces of water, spreading the grounds evenly. For a stronger brew, add more coffee to taste.
- Turn on the coffee maker and let it brew (usually takes 5–10 minutes).
- Pour your coffee into small espresso cups or demitasses. Enjoy it black or add sugar and cream if you like.
This method is quick and easy, perfect for a robust cup to start your day.
2. Stovetop Espresso Maker (Moka Pot)
For a more traditional Cuban espresso experience, use a stovetop espresso maker.
What You Need:
– Café Bustelo ground coffee (extra fine grind works best)
– Filtered water
– Moka pot
Steps:
- Fill the bottom chamber of the Moka pot with filtered water, just below the pressure valve.
- Add 2 tablespoons of Café Bustelo coffee grounds into the filter basket, leveling it without packing it too tightly.
- Assemble the pot securely and place it on medium heat.
- When you hear a gurgling sound, reduce the heat for smooth extraction.
- Once the coffee starts to fill the top chamber, remove it from heat.
- Serve straight or with milk for a creamy café con leche.
This method produces a strong, rich coffee that closely mimics espresso.
3. French Press
If you prefer a full-bodied coffee with more texture, the French press is a great option.
What You Need:
– Coarsely ground Café Bustelo coffee
– Hot (not boiling) filtered water
– French press
Steps:
- Use a coffee-to-water ratio of 1:15 (e.g., 2 tablespoons coffee to 6 ounces water).
- Add coffee grounds to the French press.
- Pour hot water over the grounds and stir gently.
- Let steep for about 4 minutes.
- Slowly press the plunger down to separate grounds from coffee.
- Pour and enjoy.
This method brings out the coffee’s deep flavors and is perfect for those who like a richer cup.
The Secret Touch: Making Espumita
A traditional Cuban coffee experience isn’t complete without espumita—a sweet, frothy sugar foam that balances the coffee’s bitterness.
How to Make Espumita:
- After brewing, place 3 teaspoons of brown sugar into your espresso cup.
- Pour a small amount of hot coffee over the sugar.
- Stir vigorously until a light, foamy texture forms on top.
- Pour the rest of the coffee into the cup and enjoy.
This sweet foam adds a signature Cuban flair to your cup and is worth trying at least once.
Tips for the Perfect Cup of Café Bustelo
– Adjust Coffee-to-Water Ratio: Start with 1 tablespoon of coffee per 6 ounces of water and tweak to your taste.
– Use Filtered Water: It makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
– Freshness Matters: Store your coffee in an airtight container away from light and moisture. Use it within two weeks for the best taste.
– Experiment: Try adding milk, sugar, or spices like cinnamon for unique variations like Café Con Leche or Café Bombón.
– Don’t Overheat: When using a stovetop espresso maker, reduce heat once brewing starts to avoid bitterness.
Why Choose Café Bustelo?
Besides its bold flavor and versatility, Café Bustelo is a healthy choice. It contains less than five calories per serving without sugar, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, its pre-ground form means you can enjoy Cuban-style espresso without fancy equipment.
Café Bustelo is more than just coffee; it’s a cultural experience you can easily recreate at home. Whether you prefer the convenience of a drip coffee maker or the rich tradition of a Moka pot, this coffee delivers bold flavor every time. So grab your grounds, pick your method, and savor the taste of Cuba in your own kitchen.